By Sostenus Wilherm
The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) has taken a bold step towards strengthening Namibia’s hunting and tourism sectors by convening a stakeholders’ engagement session held in Windhoek recently.
The session fostered collaboration and promoted sustainable growth among hunting operators and key industry players to align strategic objectives and explore opportunities for development within the sector.
During the conversation, participants engaged in open dialogue to address pressing issues affecting the industry.A key focus of the discussions was the promotion of sustainable hunting practices.
Stakeholders noted that responsible hunting plays a vital role in conserving biodiversity, supporting wildlife management and ensuring the long term sustainability of Namibia’s natural resources.Furthermore, participants agreed that maintaining high standards in conservation is essential for protecting the country’s global reputation as a leading tourism destination.
The session also looked at concerns around inclusivity, as it was highlighted that previously disadvantaged communities remain underrepresented in the hunting sector.Industry players stressed the importance of addressing these disparities through targeted interventions aimed at removing barriers to entry and improving access to opportunities.
There were calls for increased investment in skills development, capacity building and mentorship programmes to enable broader participation across the hunting and tourism value chains.Stakeholders argued that a more inclusive sector would not only promote equity but also contribute to economic growth, particularly in rural communities where hunting tourism is a significant source of income.
The NTB maintained its commitment to facilitating partnerships and ongoing engagement among stakeholders to ensure that the sector grows in a responsible and inclusive manner.
“This session marks an important step in strengthening collaboration within the industry. By working together, we can ensure that Namibia remains a global leader in sustainable tourism while creating opportunities for all Namibians,” the Board indicated.It was further stressed that stronger cooperation between government, private sector players and communities is essential in unlocking the full potential of the hunting industry.It was also noted that collective action will be key in addressing challenges and ensuring that benefits are distributed more equitably.
The engagement further called for continued dialogue and active participation from all stakeholders in shaping the future of the sector.At the engagement, there was broad agreement that sustainability and inclusivity must remain at the centre of Namibia’s tourism and conservation strategies.
In light of its socio economic developmental goals, NTB maintained that it will convene similar meetings across the industry.
